CFPs: Grants to Support Actions in the Area of Social and Labour Rights in Ukraine

The Council of Europe is inviting Ukrainian civil society organisations (CSOs) to apply for grants supporting initiatives that strengthen social and labour rights in line with European Social Charter standards. Grants of up to €20,000 each will fund projects addressing labour rights, social welfare, disability inclusion, gender equality, and protection against poverty, with activities implemented between 15 April and 15 October 2026.

Program Overview

This funding initiative by the Council of Europe aims to reinforce the capacity of Ukrainian civil society organisations (CSOs) engaged in the protection and promotion of social and labour rights. The program aligns with European Social Charter standards and supports projects that strengthen policies, practices, and awareness at both local and national levels.

Key Focus Areas

Eligible projects should address one or more of the following:

• European Social Charter system – Ensuring awareness and compliance with European social rights standards

• Right to work – Promoting employment opportunities and fair labour conditions

• Collective employment relations – Supporting dialogue between employers and employees

• Social welfare services – Improving access to public benefits and social protection

• Rights of people with disabilities – Enhancing inclusion and accessibility

• Equal opportunities and gender equality – Advancing rights for women and men

• Rights of older people – Protecting senior citizens from marginalisation

• Protection against poverty and social exclusion – Reducing economic and social vulnerabilities

Objectives

The program seeks to:

• Strengthen the capacity of CSOs working in social and labour rights protection

• Promote compliance with European Social Charter standards in Ukraine

• Support local and national-level initiatives that enhance social and labour policies

• Encourage projects with measurable impact on communities, institutions, or legislation

Grant Amounts and Budget

• Total indicative budget: €60,000

• Number of grants: 3

• Maximum grant per initiative: €20,000

Who Is Eligible?

Eligible applicants must:

• Be legally constituted non-governmental organisations in Ukraine

• Focus on social and labour rights protection

• Have at least two years of experience in the field

• Possess a bank account and demonstrate operational capacity

• Have adequate staff and professional resources to implement proposed activities

Implementation Period

• Start Date: 15 April 2026

• End Date: 15 October 2026

• All activities must be completed within this six-month timeframe

How to Apply

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility

• Ensure legal registration as a CSO in Ukraine

• Verify at least two years of active engagement in social and labour rights

• Confirm operational and financial capacity, including staff and bank account

Step 2: Develop Project Proposal

• Clearly define project objectives, outcomes, and activities aligned with the European Social Charter

• Include a work plan detailing timelines, responsibilities, and expected results

• Demonstrate measurable impact at community or policy level

Step 3: Prepare Budget

• Outline the requested grant amount (maximum €20,000)

• Provide detailed cost estimates for staff, materials, workshops, and outreach activities

Step 4: Submit Application

• Follow the submission guidelines provided by the Council of Europe

• Attach supporting documentation such as legal registration, proof of operational capacity, and organisational structure

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Submitting proposals that exceed the €20,000 grant limit

• Including activities outside the 15 April – 15 October 2026 timeframe

• Applying without proof of legal status or minimum two-year operational experience

• Failing to demonstrate alignment with European Social Charter standards

• Omitting a detailed work plan or budget breakdown

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Who can apply for this grant?

Legally registered Ukrainian CSOs with at least two years of experience in social and labour rights protection.

2. What is the maximum grant amount?

€20,000 per project, with a total program budget of €60,000.

3. What activities are eligible?

Projects must address labour rights, social welfare, disability inclusion, gender equality, rights of older people, or protection against poverty, aligned with European Social Charter standards.

4. What is the project timeframe?

All activities must occur between 15 April and 15 October 2026.

5. Can international organisations apply?

No, only Ukrainian NGOs focusing on social and labour rights are eligible.

6. Are in-kind contributions or partnerships required?

While not mandatory, partnerships and collaboration with other CSOs or local authorities are encouraged to increase impact.

7. How will applications be evaluated?

Applications will be assessed based on eligibility, alignment with program priorities, capacity to implement, and expected social impact.

Conclusion

The Council of Europe grant program provides vital support for Ukrainian CSOs to strengthen social and labour rights in line with European standards. By funding initiatives that address employment, social welfare, inclusion, and equality, this program enhances policy compliance, community resilience, and protection against social exclusion, ensuring measurable and sustainable improvements for citizens in Ukraine.